EFCC Arrests 15 Suspects Over Illegal Lithium Processing in Ogun
14 Chinese Nationals, One Nigerian Nabbed as Operatives Raid Four Illegal Processing Plants
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested 15 suspects, comprising 14 Chinese nationals and one Nigerian, over alleged illegal lithium processing activities in Ogun State.
The commission disclosed this in a statement on Monday, saying operatives of its Lagos Zonal Directorate 2 carried out the operation at four illegal lithium processing plants in the Ogere area of the state.
According to the EFCC, the suspects were arrested on Friday, October 23, following credible intelligence and surveillance.
Items recovered during the operation included bags of lithium rocks, 18 mobile phones and other electronic devices, four laptop computers, two decoders, a television remote control and a trailer truck.
The commission said investigations were ongoing and that the suspects would be charged to court upon their conclusion.
Lithium is a strategic mineral used in the production of rechargeable batteries for mobile phones, electric vehicles and energy storage systems. Illegal processing and mining activities can raise concerns over regulatory compliance, environmental protection and government revenue.
The EFCC has not disclosed the identities of the suspects or provided further details about the alleged operations of the facilities.
